Dear Becky,
Your question is an interesting one, and one that has been in the news very
often in the last couple of years. Several studies have found that
approximately 20% of men who have had a myocardial infarction develop a
major depression afterwards. Not only is this unfortunate because of the
suffering that goes along with major depression, but this depression is
also associated with a 3-4 times higher risk of mortality due to heart
disease. It also known that 80% of those with depression in the general
population are untreated. The combination of these two facts make it a
very good idea to assess those with recent M.I. for possible depression.
All physicins are trained to screen for major depression, but many are too
busy to take the time to actually do it. Since these statistics have been
in the news recently, I hope that the family members and loved ones of
these possible victims of depression will help them to seek help for any
symptoms of depression. Some of the hallmarks of depression are change in
sleep patterns, loss or gain of weight, depressed mood, suicidal ideation,
loss of concentration, anxiety, loss of pleasure in usually enjoyable
activities and irritability. If someone you know has any of these symptoms
please help them to get treatment. It is becoming increasingly accepted
that acute anxiety is the most important risk factor for suicide. Suicide
is not known to be more common in those with heart disease, but is always
an important concern when dealing with depression. Psychiatric medication
has come a very long way in recent years, and there are many medications on
the market now that can save lives.
Thank you for your question.
Sincerely,
Sarah Martin Mason, Mad Scientist